PM Shehbaz lauds Pakistani citizens’ participation in Global Sumud Flotilla

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the dignified involvement of Pakistani citizens in the Global Sumud Flotilla, describing it as a reflection of the peaceful aspirations of the nation.

He said that the participation took place in strict accordance with humanitarian principles, and that it was part of a major relief mission supported by the people of Pakistan.

“The Government of Pakistan affirms its commitment to the principle of uninterrupted humanitarian aid, and calls for the immediate return of all Pakistani citizens involved,” said the premier.

He said: “The government continues to pray for their safety and dignity, and remains actively engaged in efforts to ensure their swift return home.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli forces have raided the Global Resistance Flotilla, an international aid convoy headed towards Gaza, and detained several crew members.

The flotilla, which aimed to deliver aid to Gaza under Israeli blockade, has lost contact with a number of its vessels. Live feeds from several ships have also gone offline.

Earlier, the flotilla reported an increase in drone activity above its vessels as it moved closer to its destination on Wednesday morning.

The Global Resistance Flotilla comprises over 40 boats carrying more than 500 individuals, including parliamentarians, lawyers and Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg. The mission seeks to break the blockade imposed on the Palestinian territory.

Organisers previously reported that several unidentified ships approached the flotilla, some sailing without lights. These ships later departed, and the flotilla participants implemented precautionary security measures.

Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, a member of the Pakistani delegation aboard the flotilla, said in a video message on his ‘X’ account that the convoy had moved closer to Gaza and that Israeli vessels could now be seen approaching from a distance.